LAND is being identified for a new Peebles Cemetery following grave concerns that space was running out to bury the dead.

Burial plots have been a long-standing item on the agenda of Peebles Community Council.

It was feared that the cemetery is closing in on reaching capacity.

But members were told last week there is six years left in terms of the current rate of burials.

Chairman Lawrie Hayworth said: “We believe there is a demand going forward and we have no inclusion within the current planning process as we look at the Local Development Plan for the provision of additional cemetery area in Peebles.”

But Tweeddale East Councillor Shona Haslam assured the community council that “active work” is being carried out to find space for a new cemetery.

Mr Hayworth said: “Could I please ask that we get a timescale for officers to report back on proposals for land that could be allocated, preferably within this administration’s period of office.”